When Is a Tooth Extraction Necessary
As a family dentist, we are often asked, "When is a tooth extraction necessary?" We prefer to restore damaged teeth using dental veneers or crowns, but there are situations where extraction is recommended.
You were in an accident.
We can treat patients who need immediate dental work due to an accident. If possible, we will restore the tooth using dental bonding, veneers, or crowns. However, urgent cases may require a tooth extraction.
An infection has spread.
If you have a bad dental infection, visit a dental office immediately. Severe discomfort and difficulty in daily activities indicate that the infection has spread. Early treatment at the first sign of a toothache is best, but if the pain is intense, a tooth extraction may be necessary to quickly eliminate the infection. We can remove the problem, prescribe antibiotics, and later replace the tooth with crowns, bridges, or implants.
The cost to restore the tooth is too great.
We accept most insurance plans and offer various payment options. If a root canal is too costly, a tooth extraction can be a viable alternative to address an immediate infection. You can then consider replacing the tooth later when financially feasible.
Your wisdom teeth are impacted.
Parents often ask, "When is a tooth extraction necessary?" for their child's wisdom teeth. At Elliott.N.Abrams D.D.S, we don’t always extract wisdom teeth if there's enough room and they grow in straight. However, if wisdom teeth cause discomfort, grow in impacted, or push other teeth forward, they can pose health risks. Impacted teeth can lead to infections by creating spaces where food gets trapped. In such cases, we recommend removal for health reasons and can perform the extraction at our cosmetic dentistry office.
The Recovery Process After a Tooth Extraction
At Elliott.N.Abrams D.D.S, we inform patients that they will experience soreness and swelling for several days after a tooth extraction. This is normal and can be managed with ibuprofen and applying a cold compress or icepack on the face for 15 minutes at a time. We advise stocking up on soft foods like JELL-O, yogurt, and applesauce, which can be eaten without chewing. Within a couple of days, patients can start reintroducing solids into their diet but should be cautious until fully healed.
